Summer attractions see VAT reduced to 5%
Newsletter issue – July 2026
As part of the government's "Great British Summer Savings" package, aimed at helping families during rising costs linked to the Iran war, Rachel Reeves announced a VAT cut to 5% on tickets (for adults and children) for theme parks, zoos and museums. It also includes children's tickets for the cinema, theatre, concerts and restaurant meals.
This measure will only last over the summer holidays (25th June until 1st September) and is intended to give families "a bit of breathing room to enjoy moments that matter without the same level of financial strain", according to the Prime Minister, Kier Starmer. It will cost the Government around £300m but is hoped to stimulate spending in the UK's visitor attraction sector, giving a much-needed boost to the economy.